There’s limited research on using stem cells in diabetes specifically, meaning there’s not enough information to say how effective stem cell therapy is for treating diabetes. Because of this, stem cell therapy for diabetes is an experimental approach.
We do know that stem cells have the ability to repair damaged tissues and reduce inflammation. So in theory, stem cells may be able to rejuvenate damaged pancreatic tissues – which can help to stimulate insulin-producing cells. This leads to improved glucose control and reduces dependence on injected insulin.
Some research has demonstrated this effect in people with diabetes. Early transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (the type of cells we use at Stemwell) has shown to reduce the number of hypoglycemic episodes, produce an anti-inflammatory response, and improve overall quality of life1.
However, more research is needed in this field before the efficacy of stem cell therapy for diabetes can be confirmed.